Top 10 Accomplishments
Mayor Colleen G. Whitlow
Eight Years of Strong, Community-Focused LEADERSHIP
Established Mead’s First Police Department
Launched the town’s first full-service police department from the ground up, delivering 24/7 public safety with an emphasis on transparency and accountability, including implementation of body-worn cameras. The department now serves as a trusted institution and symbol of community security.
Drove Economic Growth with ‘Built for Mead’ Initiative
Created and led the Built for Mead Economic Development Initiative, positioning the town as a hub for business investment. Successfully attracted major employers including FedEx, Ziggi’s HQ, Home Depot, Leanin' Tree, Renee's Garden and Agfinity—bringing new jobs, stability, and expanded opportunity to Mead.
Delivered Transformational Infrastructure Projects
Oversaw major upgrades such as the I-25 Express Lanes, High Plains Boulevard, 3rd Street reconstruction, significant pavement and roadway improvements and Mead’s first traffic signal. Completed park, recreation, open space and trails master plans, ensuring a long-term foundation for growth and quality of life.
Constructed Debt-Free Community Facilities
Completed the Public Works Facility and Mead’s first Community Center—both delivered without incurring new debt. These facilities now serve as essential operational and civic spaces supporting residents and municipal services.
Maintained Low Taxes While Securing Major Grants
Preserved the region’s lowest tax rates while securing key grants adding up to over 14 Million dollars and maintaining clean yearly audits. Through sound fiscal stewardship, advanced critical services in public safety, education, and health without increasing the tax burden.
Led Regional Transportation and Policy Advocacy
Served on more than a dozen influential boards, including as DRCOG Chair, CDOT Region 4-member, North I-25 Coalition, I-25 Parallel Arterial Coalition, Front Range Passenger Railroad Coalition, and Chair of the SH 66 Coalition plus the South Weld County Sub-regional Transportation Forum. Ensured Mead had a voice in shaping Northern Colorado’s future.
Advanced Civic Engagement and Community Identity
Cultivated a strong civic culture through initiatives such as Building a STRONGER Mead, National Night Out, and Embrace-a-PLACE. Opening Mead’s FIRST public library and Fire Station 14—landmarks that foster community pride and connection.
Created Meaningful Tributes to Veterans and Families
Led the development of lasting memorials, including Mead's Veterans Memorial Park, Northern Colorado Gold Star Families Memorial and The Wall That Heals. Hosted Honor Flight Salutes, flag retirement ceremonies, and other events honoring those who served.
Provided Steady, Long-Term Public Service
Served Mead with dedication since 2014—as Trustee, Mayor, Chair of the Urban Renewal Authority, Mead 66 & I25 General Improvement District, Mead Elevations 25 General Improvement District. Guided the town through sustained growth with consistent, values-driven leadership.
Built Inclusive, Community-First Partnerships
Forged strong collaborations with nonprofits, businesses, and civic organizations, including Rotary, Mead Area Chamber of Commerce, Women in Government, the Honor Bell Foundation, and the Mayor’s Alliance to End Childhood Hunger. Promoted a compassionate, inclusive approach to governance.
Summary: A Record of Fiscally Responsible Leadership as both Mayor and Trustee, I have championed responsible governance—balancing budgets, and advancing essential infrastructure and safety initiatives. Mead remains financially strong and future-ready under this steady, conservative stewardship.